Although Lawrence Shankland “loves” to play for the Hearts, he admits that he has “a lot to consider” in terms of his future.
With 27 goals in all competitions this season, Shankland, 28, has helped Hearts advance 13 points clear of third place and into the Scottish Cup final eight.
Hearts has a contract with the Scotland striker that runs through the summer of 2025.
“On the potential of moves and stuff for me a ‘big move’ is something Hearts can’t bring you,” Shankland stated.
“That includes performing abroad or doing other similar things. There is much to think about.
“Since I’m in a good place in my career right now, it’s something I should definitely consider in the future.
“But at this moment in time I’m happy and enjoying it.”
Shankland is vying for a spot in Steve Clarke’s Euro 2024 squad and has already scored once for Scotland this season—a late equaliser away in Georgia.
Though the club has been steadfast in their assessment of Shankland and has not received any offers in the January window, his goals and performances have sparked rumours about a possible move away from Tynecastle during this transfer window.
After leaving Belgian club Beerschot to join Hearts in July 2022, Shankland claims he has been able to block off the sounds.
‘I’m loved by the fans and that’s a huge help’
The Hearts captain responded, “You need to be realistic in what the club can achieve and what you can achieve as a player,” when asked if he could realise his goals at Tynecastle.
“It would obviously be tempting if there was a chance to win things that you wouldn’t win [at Hearts], at locations where you wouldn’t play at Hearts.
“It’s a football career, and in that regard, every other player is identical.
“I would never treat my current circumstance disrespectfully. I have a contract with Hearts. This place is amazing to me. The fans’ love for me obviously helps me a lot in my week-to-week activities.
“Since I arrived, everything has been excellent. It was up to me to seize the chance to come here, and I believe I have done so.”
Hearts take on Greenock Morton live on BBC Scotland on Monday in the Scottish Cup quarterfinals.
As the capital club looks to win a major trophy for the first time since 2012, Shankland is excited about the prospect of captaining his team to Hampden.
“It’s something we would love to achieve,” he stated.
“We are currently in a strong position as we approach the quarterfinals. For us, Morton will be a difficult one.
“Professionally we can be the better team on the night and get through and get to Hampden again, and you never know where that takes you.”
